Research on containing and managing disease. Covers critical-illness theory, zoonotic disease, immunotherapy trials, and historical epidemics.
Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno have successfully developed the world's first transgenic ticks to combat tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease. By disrupting insulin signaling in ticks, the scientists aim to better understand pathogen interactions and develop new vector control targets.
A new study found that adolescents with sexual orientation discordance are 70% more likely to experience suicidal ideas or attempts compared to those with concordant orientations. This association remains even after controlling for other factors, highlighting the need for tailored approaches to support youth.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that resistance to azithromycin and ceftriaxone in China is increasing, threatening the effectiveness of dual therapy for gonorrhea treatment. The prevalence of dual resistance rose from 1.9% in 2013 to 3.3% in 2016.
Researchers at NYU School of Medicine developed a community-based health program that achieved significant control of Type 2 diabetes in a high-risk population. After six months, over 55% of participants in the intervention group had blood sugar levels under seven percent.
Exposing the gut to chlamydia provides robust protection against subsequent genital tract and other tissue infections, according to a study published in Infection and Immunity. The discovery has significant vaccine implications for preventing genital chlamydia, particularly among young people.
Researchers found that mosquitoes associate odors with unpleasant mechanical shocks, leading them to avoid those scents. The insects' ability to process and learn from odor information relies on dopamine in the brain.
Researchers discovered a connection between genetic tRNA fragments in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and their ability to spread dengue fever and other diseases. This finding could lead to targeted approaches to controlling mosquito populations and preventing disease transmission.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham and other institutions have identified 902 genes related to blood feeding and 478 genes linked to non-blood feeding in the mosquito Wyeomyia smithii. The goal is to isolate universal non-biting genes that could be manipulated to control vector-borne diseases.
The new guidelines aim to improve hospital policies and reduce the spread of multi-drug resistant bacteria. Hospitals are advised to weigh factors such as patient characteristics and time elapsed since last positive culture to determine contact precautions duration.
Researchers have mapped podoconiosis in Cameroon, a neglected tropical disease causing leg swelling, with an overall prevalence of 0.5%. The study suggests a nationwide distribution, highlighting the need for prevention and control strategies to beat this disabling disease.
The PLOS Medicine collection addresses diverse topics in the field of STI prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Researchers investigate vaccine development, online testing services, healthcare provider perspectives, and antibiotic shortages.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have shed light on the molecular mechanisms behind ALS by studying the depletion of protein TDP-43. The study found that TDP-43 binds to U6 snRNA, stabilizing it, which leads to its degradation and eventual cell death. This discovery may lead to ways to slow or stop neuronal cell death in ALS patients.
Researchers found that Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes exhibited reduced dengue virus transmission potential by up to 50% compared to uninfected mosquitoes. Laboratory conditions underestimated this effect, suggesting improved vaccines and disease management approaches are needed.
Lobachevsky University scientists find that moderate temperature increase induces small electrical responses in plant leaves. These responses are observed even at lower temperatures, suggesting a possible natural occurrence under field conditions. The research opens prospects for controlling plant resistance to high temperatures by reg...
Researchers successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to disable a defective gene causing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in mice, extending their lifespan by 25% and delaying the onset of muscle-wasting symptoms. The therapy targeted motor neurons, allowing for rescue of these critical cells and enabling improved muscle function.
The journal Bioelectronics in Medicine explores the innovative field of bioelectronic neural prostheses, aiming to revolutionize healthcare. The first issue features articles on vagus nerve stimulation, neuromodulation, and peripheral nerves, among others.
A randomized clinical trial found that high-intensity exercise three times a week slows worsening of Parkinson's symptoms, while moderate intensity workouts have no effect. The study suggests that high-intensity exercise may be an effective treatment for delaying disease progression.
Researchers identified Nef MY9 and Pol IY11 as immunodominant epitopes for HLA-C*12:02 haplotype, showing its ability to supplement HLA-B's control over HIV-1 replication in infected individuals. The study adds knowledge to the AIDS research puzzle, highlighting a potential protective mechanism against the virus.
A national collaborative program helped nursing homes improve infection prevention practices, leading to a 54% reduction in catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). The AHRQ Safety Program empowered IPs to support practice changes and instilled a robust resident-safety culture.
A recent conference report identifies knowledge gaps in bladder control, including the impact of aging and disease on urinary control. The report emphasizes the need for better treatments, person-centered care, and behavioral therapy to address this prevalent condition.
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America published a new guidance document for hospitals to respond to infectious disease outbreaks. The document emphasizes the role of healthcare epidemiologists in emergency preparedness and response, providing medical and technical expertise and leading infection prevention efforts.
The Human Vaccines Project has reported high-level outcomes from two concurrent clinical studies aimed at deciphering the components and mechanisms of human immunity. The findings may provide important new insights into human immunity, which will be leveraged to launch expanded studies in 2018.
Emergency department visits for nonfatal self-inflicted injuries increased significantly among young US females between 2001 and 2015. The rates of these visits rose by 18.8% annually among girls aged 10-14 from 2009 to 2015.
Researchers developed and grew modified Cavendish bananas resistant to Fusarium wilt tropical race 4 (TR4), a devastating soil-borne fungus. One line remained TR4-free for three years, while three others showed strong resistance.
A study of 2,908 participants found no change in glycemic control among people with diabetes in the US between 1998-2010 and 2007-2014. Despite an increase in awareness and testing for HbA1c levels, there was no significant improvement in glycemic control during this period.
The ECDC survey found a significant increase in Livestock-associated MRSA detections in humans across the EU/EEA since 2007. LA-MRSA poses a zoonotic risk, particularly for those working with livestock, and its spread is of concern due to lack of systematic surveillance.
A survey of 1,914 healthcare professionals found that four in 10 opt to work while experiencing influenza-like illness, putting patients at risk. Hospital-based providers are among the most likely to do so, highlighting the need for updated paid sick leave policies and tailored strategies to promote healthy choices.
Researchers have identified two proteases essential for the malaria parasite's survival and dissemination, as well as a molecule capable of inhibiting them. This discovery could lead to the development of drugs blocking not only the parasite's development in humans but also its transmission to mosquitoes.
A study by the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute reveals that routine genomic surveillance of MRSA can detect outbreaks much sooner than current methods. This approach helps prevent further transmission and reduces the number of people affected, with potential implications for infection control.
Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland found no association between long-term opioid use and Alzheimer's disease. Despite this, they highlight potential adverse effects such as drowsiness and addiction, suggesting restricted use for severe pain conditions.
A new study estimates that about 2 million Americans may be exposed to high levels of naturally occurring arsenic in their private well water. The researchers developed a model incorporating tens of thousands of existing arsenic measurements and identified arsenic hotspots in regions with higher concentrations.
A study published in JAMA found a strong association between Zika virus infection and Guillain-Barré syndrome in Puerto Rico. The study identified acute Zika virus infection as a significant risk factor for GBS, highlighting the need for further investigation into the pathophysiology of Zika virus infection.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a promising approach called synthetic incompatibility to prevent interbreeding between genetically engineered and unaltered organisms. This technology effectively makes engineered organisms a separate species unable to produce viable offspring.
A study published in JAMA found that stopping behavioral interventions aimed at reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing led to an increase in such prescribing practices, despite previous effectiveness of the interventions. The randomized trial, which included 47 primary care practices and 248 clinicians, showed a decrease in appr...
Researchers have found that essential oils extracted from citrus fruit peels are highly effective in killing mosquito larvae, suggesting a potential eco-friendly alternative for mosquito control programs. The study, believed to be the first of its kind, uses three citrus species and has shown promising results.
A KAIST research team has identified a new mechanism that causes the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors. The discovery presents a new perspective on three decades of conventional wisdom and opens up new avenues for alleviating motor problems.
Researchers have discovered a possible biomarker, CCL11, that may allow CTE to be diagnosed in living individuals. The study found elevated CCL11 levels in the brains of former football players with CTE compared to non-athletes and those with Alzheimer's disease. This discovery could lead to targeted treatments for CTE sufferers.
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurodegenerative disease affecting deer and farm animals, with limited effectiveness of past management strategies. New research proposes controlled forest fires as a risk control strategy, aiming to reduce the spread of prions shed by animal waste and carcasses.
According to a new study by CDC researchers, three-quarters of US counties are suitable for Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which transmit Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever viruses. The mosquito species thrive in regions with mild winters and high humidity, with the eastern and southern US being most at risk.
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences has awarded a $2.375 million grant to Van Andel Research Institute to study epigenetic control mechanisms that regulate the genetic code. The researchers aim to understand how these complex controls are orchestrated and leverage this knowledge to design more effective medications.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a way to program cells using genetic engineering, enabling them to control actions such as fighting disease. The technique uses a common molecule called RNA, which can be engineered into sequences similar to computer code to instruct cells to perform specific actions.
A quality improvement program using MAP framework improved hypertension control in primary care practices by 9.2 percentage points over six months. The program's evidence-based strategies encourage accurate blood pressure measurement and medication adherence, leading to reduced systolic pressures.
A new study found that certified nursing assistants frequently failed to change gloves, leading to the spread of dangerous pathogens in nursing homes. The study recommends improved glove use behavior and monitoring to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered that the protein Gcn4 decreases protein synthesis and extends the life of yeast cells. This finding opens new ways to control the aging process and its related diseases.
Researchers found a strong correlation between rainfall and dengue disease burden in most states except Gujarat. Climatic conditions play a crucial role in the extrinsic incubation period (EIP) of the virus, with lower temperatures resulting in longer EIPs.
The University of Missouri is developing immunizations against bovine anaplasmosis using extracts from tick tissues. The goal is to create sustainable methods to prevent the spread of tick-transmitted diseases.
A new case-control study found that the BCG vaccine protects over 50% of UK children against TB for at least 20 years after vaccination in early teenage years. The research highlights the importance of BCG in preventing the spread of disease, particularly in areas with high TB risk but low vaccination coverage.
A systematic review found that indoor spraying had some effect on either mosquito populations or dengue case numbers, with stronger evidence for adult mosquito populations. The study concluded that more research is needed, but the results are promising as a vector control method.
Researchers identified distinct gene expression patterns and immune signatures associated with asymptomatic dengue infections, revealing a supporting role for T cell protection. These findings could optimize vaccine development efforts by understanding what types of immune responses are important in defending the body against the disease.
Researchers developed a minimally invasive technique using magnetism to activate specific cells in the brain, inducing bodily movements such as running and rotating. This breakthrough could lead to advances in studying and treating neurological diseases, including traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson's disease, and depression.
Researchers analyzed online trends, incidence, and health risk communication during the Zika pandemic and found that press releases were reactive and hard to read. They recommend improving readability and involving public representatives in assessing documents before releasing them to the public.
Using metformin to treat patients with prediabetes could save the US healthcare system approximately $20 per patient each year. The medication is underused, with only 0.7% of eligible patients currently prescribed it.
A voluntary registry will connect Flint residents exposed to lead-contaminated water to healthcare services and support programs. The project aims to improve lives, identify individuals, and provide guidance for state and local recommendations.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified biomarkers associated with chronic fatigue syndrome severity by analyzing 17 immune-system signaling proteins. These findings suggest that inflammation is a powerful driver of the disease and may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options.
A new study of adults with Type 1 diabetes for at least 50 years found that better glucose control is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The research also discovered that exercise plays a significant role in lowering mortality rates from all causes in this population.
Researchers developed a simple, cost-effective way for hospitals to increase their capacity to contain airborne illnesses. By sealing off a hospital wing and adjusting ventilation systems, hospitals can reduce the spread of diseases. The new solution enables small community hospitals to prepare for rapidly spreading airborne illnesses.
Li-Jun Ma at UMass Amherst receives a five-year NSF CAREER grant to advance understanding of fungal pathogenesis and develop disease-resistant crops. Her research focuses on the plant-pathogen interface, exploring mechanisms to control pathogenic fungi causing wilt diseases in over 100 plant species.
Researchers at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine have been awarded £6.4 million from the Global Challenges Research Fund to develop evidence-based solutions for integrated vector control in three African countries. The partnership aims to strengthen national decision-making, reduce disease burden, and increase resilience against ou...
Researchers visualize how fruit flies sense and process both temperature and humidity through their brains, revealing a 'sensory map' that helps them avoid hot and dry conditions. This discovery could inform strategies to prevent mosquito-borne diseases by targeting the mosquitoes' own humidity receptors.
A team of UC researchers is using gene editing to develop a new method to control disease-spreading mosquitoes, focusing on the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The Safe Genes project aims to introduce genetic elements that rapidly spread throughout a population, reducing the mosquito population and preventing disease transmission.